Browns: Johnny Manziel signs contract with Browns

Rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel signed a four-year contract Tuesday worth approximately $8.25 million. The pact includes a fifth-year team option, as mandated under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement.

Johnny Manziel

Cleveland drafted Manziel with the No. 22 overall pick May 8, completing a very public courtship between both parties. The polarizing Heisman Trophy winner was the Browns’ second selection in the first round, following Oklahoma State cornerback Justin Gilbert at No. 8.

Gilbert and second-round pick Joel Bitonio, a tackle from Nevada, are Cleveland’s remaining unsigned draft choices with five weeks remaining until training camp.

Browns coach Mike Pettine has repeatedly listed Manziel as his second-stringer behind incumbent Brian Hoyer, but will hold a quarterback competition during the preseason.

During his two-year career with the Aggies, Manziel compiled a 20-6 record in amassing 9,989 yards total offense and 93 touchdowns. Manziel also completed 68.95 percent of his passes in becoming a two-time Heisman finalist.

The 6-foot, 210-pounder has the second-best selling jersey among NFL rookies — St. Louis’ Michael Sam leads the way — making it likely he will earn more in endorsements and royalties over the life of his contract than in salary.

While Manziel’s signing was expected, another roster move made later in the day was not.

Cleveland released wide receiver Earl Bennett, a seven-year veteran who signed a one-year, $730,000 contract May 16. Only $75,000 was guaranteed because of his concussion issues while playing for Chicago last year, according to NFL.com.

Bennett’s departure leaves two other recent signees — Miles Austin and Nate Burleson — as the Browns’ projected starters at wideout. Pro Bowl selection Josh Gordon is expected to be suspended for the entire season after violating the league’s illegal substance policy for the third time.